This page demonstrates how the CGS81 PCB can be used as the basis for a basic stereo mixer. Note that as it is DC coupled, it will also work with DC signals and control voltages. Any DC offset that is present at the inputs will affect the outputs, so keep this in mind when interfacing to external equipment.

It will work on either +/- 12 volts or +/-15 volts without modification.

A little on how it works:

The schematic for the basic stereo mixer. Note that many parts left of the squares marked "IN" are mounted off-board.

The circuit is a standard two-inverting-stage op-amp DC Mixer. For each channel, a panner circuit is wired before the inputs to the op-amp stages, which operate as mixers and gain recovery circuits to compensate for the losses in the panning stages.

Before you start assembly, check the board for etching faults. Look for any shorts between tracks, or open circuits due to over etching. Take this opportunity to sand the edges of the board if needed, removing any splinters or rough edges.

When you are happy with the printed circuit board, construction can proceed as normal, starting with the resistors first, followed by the IC sockets if used, then moving onto the taller components. Note that as this board is being repurposed for the mixer, you need to follow the parts overlay given above, not the on the PCB.

Take particular care with the orientation of the polarized components, such as electrolytics, diodes, transistors and ICs.

When inserting the ICs in their sockets, take care not to accidentally bend any of the pins under the chip. Also, make sure the notch on the chip is aligned with the notch marked on the PCB overlay.

If you are not going to separate the board into two units, you do not need to install the beads and power connector at one end of the PCB. The 10uF electrolytics can be installed, as they will help with power rail decoupling.

There is provision on the rear of the board to install 10n to 100n, 1206 or 805 SMT capacitors across the power rails near the 10uF Electrolytic capacitors. These are optional.

The remainder of the circuit needs to be wired, point to point, between the jacks and pots.